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Mechanic doesn't recommend FW-16

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Old Jan 15, 2016 | 10:31 PM
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Mechanic doesn't recommend FW-16

I had a local diesel shop in Tulsa change my new to me F350's oil last week and asked him to check the coolent to see if it contained enough FW-16. He said they didn't recommend adding it as the new coolent pretty much prevents cavitation and furthermore he had never seen an issue caused by cavitation. Is this accurate or do we still need to use an additive to prevent possible engine damage caused by cavitation?

Thanks
 
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Old Jan 15, 2016 | 11:07 PM
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That would depend on what kind of Anti-freeze is in it now. There are diesel rated long life types of anti-freeze that shouldn't need any additives to them. But, a simple dip with a testing strip and about 30 seconds should tell you what you need to know. Most any parts store should carry the test strips.
 
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Old Jan 15, 2016 | 11:30 PM
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You need a new mechanic!
 
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Old Jan 16, 2016 | 08:58 AM
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Yep and ....

I also asked him about deleting the exhaust gas valve on the pedestal and he said that would be a mistake. Need to network and find another shop around Tulsa.
 
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Old Jan 16, 2016 | 11:45 AM
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Yes, yes you do. Try to find a performance diesel shop that knows 7.3s
 
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Old Jan 17, 2016 | 07:33 AM
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Places to Eat

I'm sorry, I just saw your question regarding places to eat in Tulsa. When will you be coming back and what type of food do you like?
 
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Old Jan 17, 2016 | 03:53 PM
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Originally Posted by BBslider001
Yes, yes you do. Try to find a performance diesel shop that knows 7.3s
This is the hats part. Most shops just say they know 7.3's
 
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Old Jan 18, 2016 | 08:16 AM
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Most dodge guys dont worry about caviataion. so he's probably a dodge guy.

It's an issue with 7.3's and should be kept an eye on.
 
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Old Jan 22, 2016 | 08:31 AM
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Originally Posted by CampSpringsJohn
That would depend on what kind of Anti-freeze is in it now. There are diesel rated long life types of anti-freeze that shouldn't need any additives to them. But, a simple dip with a testing strip and about 30 seconds should tell you what you need to know. Most any parts store should carry the test strips.
My truck has the green antifreeze in it now.. Is the Red extended life Diesel antifreeze ok for my 97 7.3? Just purchased it and don't know how much time is on the coolant. Might be due for a change. What about that additive. I don't do a lot of highway miles so is it still needed? Don't know if original owner ever used it or not.
 
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Old Jan 22, 2016 | 09:23 AM
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A lot of us use this. Extended life isn't the way to go in our motors, so I've read. It doesn't matter how you drive, you need the additive and this stuff comes with it.


 
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Old Jan 22, 2016 | 09:33 AM
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Haven't seen the additive. Where do you get yours?
 
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Old Jan 22, 2016 | 08:39 PM
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SCA precharged, right below the big letters CHARGE (supplemental coolant additive). After awhile it starts to wear off so get some test strips and you can get some bottles of the stuff from Ford or NAPA.
 
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Old Jan 22, 2016 | 09:05 PM
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My supplimental book says FW15. Whats the difference between 15 and 16 other than one number?
 
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Old Jan 22, 2016 | 09:09 PM
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Originally Posted by oldbird1965
A lot of us use this. Extended life isn't the way to go in our motors, so I've read. It doesn't matter how you drive, you need the additive and this stuff comes with it.


Sounds good to me but where can I get it? Napa? Or gotta go to a fleet supply store?
 
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Old Jan 22, 2016 | 09:39 PM
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I found it a O'Reily's and Car-Quest. I don't know about auto zone, advance auto or NAPA.
 
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